Shame is a tool that might be used in some cases to prevent criminals from repeating their actions. Yet the use of that tool should be very limited, as it easily gets out of hand and becomes harmful. Shame might be a useful tool when dealing with criminals whose actions were non-violent and the punishment for them is relatively soft. It is so due to the reduction of the chance of them committing these crimes again after they feel ashamed of their actions, as often, a soft legal punishment is not enough to prevent recidivism. “Clearly, shame hurts. People value their reputations for both emotional and financial reasons.” (Kahan, 559) On the other hand, shaming people might get out of hand, as both authorities and usual people might start to shame others just for the sake of it. In that case, there are no benefits to shaming criminals, yet the negative consequences occur. “As a result, shame becomes less about offense or punishment and more about venting” (Marlowe, 564). There is more logic in shaming the crime itself, not the criminal.
This way, the potential criminals will anticipate being ashamed after committing a crime, which will possibly prevent their actions without causing any harm. There seems to be no positive disbalance towards the benefits of such practice in relation to the destructive behaviors that it causes. “Scientific research, however, clearly indicates that public shaming and humiliation is not the path of choice. Such efforts are doomed to provoke all sorts of unintended negative consequences.” (Tangney, 554). Therefore, the limitations regarding the use of shame as a terminating tool for non-violent crimes should not be used against criminals but against the crimes.